Sheikha Bibi urges support for traditional arts on the world stage
Speaking during a panel discussion titled "The Role of Art in Creating Harmony Across Borders," Sheikha Bibi stressed that cultural expression transcends boundaries through a shared human language of creativity. The event, held on the opening day of the Arab Women Summit in London, also featured the participation of Professor Christoph Lindner, President of the Royal College of Art, and Athena Pears, Director of Christie's Art Foundation.
Sheikha Bibi noted that external exhibitions and cultural initiatives—supported by the State of Kuwait under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah—facilitate international cultural dialogue. These efforts are often coordinated through Kuwait's diplomatic missions and the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL).
She underlined that traditional arts play a unique role in bringing people together within a shared cultural framework, creating lasting and positive effects on international relations — particularly between the United Kingdom and the Arab world.
During the discussion, Sheikha Bibi also addressed actionable steps to enhance harmony and understanding between nations through art and heritage. The panel was chaired by Professor Lindner and featured leading figures in the global art world, including representatives from Christie's, the world's oldest fine art auction house.
Sheikha Bibi's invitation to the summit reflects her significant contributions over more than a decade to preserving and promoting cultural heritage in various countries.
The Arab Women Summit, held under the theme "Arab-British Relations," continues on Thursday with an awards ceremony honoring a number of distinguished Arab women for their achievements, including Sheikha Bibi.
The summit aims to spotlight the contributions of Arab women across political, scientific, economic, artistic, media, and literary fields. It also promotes cultural dialogue between Britain and Arab nations, supports women's empowerment, and encourages knowledge exchange to enhance the global presence of Arab women.
The event features over 40 speakers from around the world, including political leaders, members of royal families, diplomats, and thought leaders. Prominent participants include the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Sofia of Sweden, and former British Prime Minister Theresa May.
Panel discussions and workshops throughout the summit focus on enhancing collaboration in education, entrepreneurship, and science.
Organized by the London Arabia Foundation and Sidra Medicine Academic Hospital and Center, the summit is held in partnership with prestigious British and Arab institutions. It is overseen by a high-level committee that includes the Dean of the Arab Diplomatic Corps and Bahrain's Ambassador to the UK, Sheikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, former UK Culture Minister Sir Hugh Robertson, and British MP Nusrat Ghani.
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